The poll, which was conducted by IAM Drive & Survive and the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) and covers both genders, found that 61% of females drove to or for work, but only 22% of these were offered driver training by their employer.

Almost the same proportion of men drove to or for work (60%), but a staggering 94% had been offered driver training by their employer.

Simon Elstow, IAM Drive & Survive head of training said: 'These are very interesting results. The poll suggests that women are missing out on beneficial driver training simply because statistically, women appear to be safer drivers overall.'

Department for Transport figures showed that in 2007 530 females were involved in KSI (Killed or Seriously Injured) accidents compared to 1,640 men.

'We know that women have fewer KSIs, but they are most vulnerable at junctions and are involved in more low speed accidents, which can result in hefty costs to employers. We would encourage female drivers to "speak up" at work and request driver training as part of the employer’s duty of care,' concluded Mr Elstow.